Search Results (223)

In this study, we compare two contrasting years within the 2020–2025 period—one characterized by extreme heat and drought, and another by unusually high precipitation. We used five years of climatic data provided by the Hungarian Meteorological Service (OMSZ), along with vegetation activity indices (NDVI—Normalized Difference Vegetation Index; NDWI—Normalized Difference Water Index) derived from Sentinel-2A satellite imagery. In parallel, during three years of the study period (2020, 2022, and 2025), we collected five phytosociological relevés in each of the five vegetation types subjected to different management regimes. For data analysis, we applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA), and the Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) model. Vegetation index patterns were compared with the relative water requirements of the constituent plant species. In the ungrazed dry sandy site, climatic fluctuations did not significantly affect vegetation composition and the habitat remained a stable open sandy grassland. Among the four grazed sites, grazing intensity remained unchanged during the study in three cases (N1, N2, and SZ). Thus, vegetation changes observed in these areas can be attributed to climatic factors. Vegetation composition shifted in N1 and N2, whereas no significant change was detected in the drier SZ site. This indicates higher resistance to grazing in SZ, which can therefore be sustainably used as pasture, while the N1–N2 sites responded sensitively to precipitation variability under identical grazing pressure and are better suited for use as meadows. The most pronounced changes occurred at the P site, which had previously functioned as an animal resting area and began regenerating after abandonment in 2022. Vegetation composition shifted markedly within two years, demonstrating that land-use practices exert a stronger influence on sandy grassland vegetation than climatic fluctuations. Overall, the drier habitats were more resilient to both grazing pressure and climatic variability and are suitable for grazing, whereas the moister vegetation types were more sensitive and should preferably be managed as hay meadows. Full article

Background: The predictability of regenerative outcomes in non-contained intrabony periodontal defects remains limited. Autogenous tooth bone grafts (ATB) may represent a biologically active and osteoconductive scaffold with minimal residual graft material. This study evaluated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of ATB combined with enamel matrix derivative (EMD) in intrabony defects. Methods: Nine systemically healthy patients (15 defects) were treated with ATB + EMD in a retrospective proof-of-concept design. Clinical parameters—probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and gingival recession (GR)—were recorded at baseline and 6 months. Radiographic changes in defect depth and width were also assessed. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Mean PPD decreased from 7.73 ± 0.96 mm to 3.87 ± 0.74 mm (p < 0.001), and CAL improved from 9.20 ± 1.47 mm to 5.53 ± 1.36 mm (p < 0.001). GR changes were not significant. Radiographically, mean defect depth and width were reduced from 3.81 ± 1.59 mm and 2.56 ± 0.75 mm to 0.72 ± 1.08 mm and 0.44 ± 0.70 mm, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The combination of ATB and EMD yielded substantial clinical and radiographic improvements in intrabony periodontal defects. These findings suggest that autogenous tooth bone grafts may serve as a reliable biologically active scaffold for regenerative periodontal surgery. This is the first study evaluating the combination of EMD and ATB. Within the study limitations, ATB + EMD demonstrated promising regenerative potential, warranting future controlled clinical trials. Full article

Background/Objectives: Acute appendicitis (AA) is among the most common surgical emergencies. Differentiating between complicated (CAA) and uncomplicated (UAA) forms is essential for selecting the appropriate management—operative or non-operative—and for optimizing patient prioritization and outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of emerging inflammatory indices in distinguishing these forms of AA. Methods: A total of 514 adult patients with surgically confirmed AA were retrospectively analyzed. Six immune-inflammatory indices—neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV)—were calculated and compared with intraoperative and histopathological findings. Postoperative outcomes, including length of hospital stay (LOS) and hospitalization costs, were also evaluated. Results: All six indices were significantly higher in intraoperatively identified complicated cases (p < 0.0001). In histopathological analysis, five indices (NLR, MLR, SII, SIRI, and PIV) remained significantly elevated in patients with wall necrosis or perforation (p = 0.000–0.019), while PLR did not reach statistical significance. The indices showed fair diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.664–0.719, p < 0.0001). NLR and MLR were independent risk factors for CAA (p = 0.006 and p = 0.016), and MLR was also independently associated with complicated histopathological findings (p = 0.036). PIV independently predicted both increased LOS and higher hospitalization costs (p = 0.001 for each). Conclusions: These easily calculable inflammatory markers can serve as useful adjuncts for preoperative stratification of AA, supporting timely decision-making and contributing to more cost-effective emergency surgical care. Full article

According to climate projections, the Pannonian region is expected to experience an increasing frequency of drought events. This trend affects not only agricultural areas but also natural grasslands. The Festuca wagneri species, selected for this study, is a dominant and well-adapted grass in dry natural habitats. A total of 54 Festuca wagneri individuals were examined across three soil types: sand, loam, and clay. In each soil type, 18 plants were assessed for drought tolerance. Water was applied at three dosage levels: 200, 300, and 400 mL. The experiment was conducted between 4 April and 18 July 2024, during which the total weight of the pots and the amount of drained water were measured regularly. All data processing and statistical analyses were performed in R version 4.3.2. A three-way factorial ANOVA was used to evaluate main and interaction effects. Model residuals were tested for normality (Shapiro–Wilk test) and homoscedasticity using diagnostic plots. The results showed that Festuca wagneri individuals tolerated even the lowest soil moisture levels induced by low water-holding capacity of the soil and low water input. This indicates that the species can be effectively used in grassland management and restoration under future climate change scenarios. The main differences were observed among soil types, highlighting the crucial importance of soil structure when establishing this species. Loam soils, already near optimal, respond best to moderate. Full article

Purpose of the article: The study aims to explore how demographic characteristics—including gender, age, education, employment type, household composition, and place of residence—affect perceived financial security among Hungarian adults. It seeks to identify which population segments feel most or least financially secure and to assess the relationship between socio-demographic factors and subjective financial well-being. Methods: The analysis is based on the OECD Financial Culture Survey conducted in Hungary on a representative sample of 1000 adults. Perceived financial security was measured using four questionnaire items related to financial satisfaction, concerns about expenses, and income sufficiency. Independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Welch’s ANOVA were applied to test group differences. Findings & value added: Results indicate no significant gender differences in perceived financial security, while education and employment status show strong effects: higher educational attainment and self-employment or retirement are associated with greater financial security, whereas lack of formal education and disability predict lower security perceptions. Urban residents, particularly in large cities, report significantly higher perceived security than those in smaller towns. The study contributes to the literature by integrating OECD-level data with demographic analysis, highlighting the role of education and labor market position in shaping subjective financial well-being in Hungary. Full article

We report the synthesis and biological characterization of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes with gold(I), silver(I), copper(I), and palladium(II) metal centers, and 3-(2,6-diisopropyl-phenyl) imidazolinium- and imidazolium-based ligands, including their biscarbene complexes, along with metal complexes of 4-(S)-tert-butyl-imidazolinium-derived carbenes carrying various substituents in position 1. Compared to the imidazolium complexes, the corresponding imidazolinium complexes displayed superior cytotoxicity against the Mes-Sa uterine sarcoma cell line, while the biscarbene complexes exhibited greatly enhanced cytotoxicity with nanomolar activity. The ABCB1-overexpressing multidrug-resistant sublines of Mes-Sa demonstrated only marginal resistance to monocarbene imidazolinium complexes lacking a 4-(S)-tert-butyl group, whereas significant resistance was observed for all other complexes, with its extent further influenced by the nature of the metal center. Probing a subset of the complexes confirmed their strong cytotoxicity against the CST murine breast cancer cell line and its cisplatin-resistant variant, with little or no cross-resistance observed. Within a defined subset, compounds triggered apoptosis, and intracellular ROS production was consistently induced by the copper complexes. Collectively, these results indicate that imidazolinium-based metal NHCs are promising anticancer drug candidates, with copper and silver centers standing out for their potent cytotoxicity and evasion of both ABCB1-mediated and cisplatin resistance. Full article

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis, the principal indication for joint arthroplasty, has doubled in incidence since 1990. Advances in surgical techniques, combined with an ageing population, have driven a substantial rise in arthroplasty procedures, presenting numerous challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. This study analyses historical trends in joint arthroplasty, assesses the accuracy of prior projections, and forecasts future demand using data from international arthroplasty registries. The goal is to guide healthcare resource management and policymaking. Methods: A systematic registry search identified 15 nations’ joint arthroplasty registries, and 209 annual reports provided high-quality data on primary total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasties (TKA) over the past two decades. Future arthroplasty volumes were projected using a deterministic negative-exponential saturating growth model. Results: From 2010 to 2023, THA incidence rose by 130% to 210%, while TKA increased by 150% to 664% across the analysed national registries. Projections to 2050 indicate sustained growth: THA volumes are expected to rise by 121% to over 200% and TKA by at least 130% across all countries. Conclusions: The ongoing escalation in joint arthroplasty demand necessitates proactive healthcare planning. Without strategic investments in infrastructure, workforce capacity, and digital resources, national healthcare systems risk being overwhelmed by the projected growth in both primary and revision procedures in the coming decades. Full article

The emergence of generative AI, particularly the widespread accessibility of ChatGPT, has led to challenges for higher education. The extent and manner of use are under debate. Local empirical investigations about the use and acceptance of ChatGPT contribute to effective policymaking. The study employs a specialized approach, utilizing an information system view based on the DeLone and McLean Information Systems Success Model as its theoretical framework. A survey was conducted to assess students’ opinions about ChatGPT regarding its usefulness in their studies. The model was tested using PLS-SEM with 466 Hungarian and Romanian higher education students. The model examined six constructs as information quality, system quality, service quality, use, user satisfaction, and net benefits. The results confirmed the effects of information quality and system quality on use and satisfaction, whereas service quality did not make a significant contribution. Satisfaction was found to be the key driver to use. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of AI acceptance in higher education and provides valuable considerations for policymaking. A data-oriented, task-focused policymaking is recommended over system-based regulation. Additionally, a comprehensive framework model is required for international comparisons, which combines information systems success and technology acceptance models. Full article

Background: Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, is a neglected tropical pathogen that has been increasingly encountered in Europe through travel-related infections. Clinical manifestations range from localized abscesses to life-threatening sepsis, posing diagnostic challenges in non-endemic regions. Methods: We report two travel-associated melioidosis cases confirmed in Hungary between 2008 and 2024. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and core-genome MLST (cgMLST) were performed for molecular characterization. In parallel, a systematic review of travel-related melioidosis cases reported in Europe (1980–2025) was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Data were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the PubMLST database. Results: In silico MLST identified two distinct sequence types (STs): a novel ST1643, and ST1051, previously reported in Asia and Australia. Both isolates clustered within the Asian clade, confirming an imported origin. Virulence profiling revealed major determinants, including the Yersinia-like fimbriae (YLF) cluster, fhaB3, and ITS type C. The ST1643 isolate carried the bimA_Bm variant and multiple resistance genes (blaOXA-57, blaPenI, and amrAB efflux system), while ST1051 harbored blaOXA-59. The literature review identified 82 studies encompassing 195 European cases, most originating from Southeast Asia, with pneumonia, followed by septic form and abscess as the predominant presentation. We found only eight neuromelioidosis cases in Europe. Conclusions: This study represents the first report of neuromelioidosis in Hungary, and the first global description of ST1643. Combined genomic and epidemiological data highlight the need for improved clinical awareness, genomic surveillance, and diagnostic preparedness in non-endemic regions, as global travel and climate change expand the distribution of melioidosis. Full article

Dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of rectal adenocarcinoma. In this study, we aimed to identify miRNA alterations associated with the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer patients. High-throughput small RNA sequencing was performed to assess salivary miRNA expression profiles in 31 participants (11 rectal adenocarcinoma patients and 20 healthy volunteers). Paired saliva samples were collected from patients before and after chemoradiation. Tumor regression was classified according to the modified Ryan scheme into responders (tumor regression grade [TRG] 1–2, n = 10) and nonresponders (TRG3, n = 1). Bioinformatic integration of small non-coding RNA data revealed 37 miRNAs with distinct expression differences between patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, seven miRNAs showed significant alterations in response to radiotherapy. Among these, five candidates (hsa-miR-378a-3p, hsa-miR-203a-3p, hsa-miR-200a-5p, hsa-miR-361-5p, and hsa-miR-107) were successfully validated by RT-qPCR, displaying significantly increased salivary expression levels post-radiation compared with the pre-radiation samples (p < 0.05). Notably, hsa-miR-203a-3p, hsa-miR-200a-5p, and hsa-miR-361-5p demonstrated excellent discriminatory power for tumor regression grade (AUC > 0.7). Our findings support the involvement of specific salivary miRNAs in rectal adenocarcinoma tumor regression and highlight their potential as non-invasive biomarkers to evaluate treatment response following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Full article

During the development of vehicle control algorithms, effective real-world validation is crucial. Model vehicle platforms provide a cost-effective and accessible method for such testing. The open-source F1Tenth project is a popular choice, but its reliance on lidar sensors limits certain applications. To enable more universal environmental perception, integrating a stereo camera system could be advantageous, although existing software packages do not yet support this functionality. Therefore, our research focuses on developing a modular software architecture for the F1Tenth platform, incorporating real-time stereo vision-based environment perception, robust state representation, and clear actuator interfaces. The system simplifies the integration and testing of control algorithms, while minimizing the simulation-to-reality gap. The framework’s operation is demonstrated through a real-world control problem. Environmental sensing, representation, and the control method combine classical and deep learning techniques to ensure real-time performance and robust operation. Our platform facilitates real-world testing and is suitable for validating research projects. Full article

Autonomous vehicle control has undergone remarkable developments in recent years, especially in maneuvering at the limits of traction. These developments promise improved maneuverability and safety, but they also highlight a constant challenge: translating control strategies developed in simulation into robust, real-world applications. The complexity of real-world environments, with their inherent uncertainties and rapid changes, poses significant obstacles for autonomous systems that need to dynamically adapt to unpredictable conditions, such as varying traction. The aim of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of robust adversarial reinforcement learning (RARL) for controlling circular drift maneuvers under dynamic road adhesion changes and uncertainties. The presented simulation results show that agents trained with RARL can enhance agents developed using only standard reinforcement learning techniques, where they were most critically vulnerable, such as sudden significant loss of traction during the drift initiation phase. This could present another step towards the application of more robust autonomous systems. Full article

In order to tackle the problems caused by invasive alien plant species, it is important to know what the main groups that have the largest influence on the spreading of the species, know and think about them. Nation-wide questionnaire surveys were carried out in Hungary between 2016 and 2019 among three important stakeholder groups (local governments, national park directorates (NPDs), and state forestry units (SFUs)) of tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima). The aim of the surveys was to reveal the perception of the three groups about Ailanthus altissima, their experiences with eradication, and other needs for its successful management of the species. Besides basic statistical methods, the chi² test, Fisher’s exact test, Cramer’s V value, and Mann–Whitney U test were conducted to compare groups and reveal relationships between different variables. 221 local governments, 10 NPDs, and 110 SFUs filled in the questionnaire. The response rate was quite low for local governments (8.8%) and high for NPDs (100%) and SFUs (97.5%). Our findings show that the species was recognised by only 59% of respondents representing local governments. Further results are presented regardingthis subsample.The negative impacts of Ailanthus altissima were perceived in all three groups at a higher rate (over 95% in all three groups) than positive impacts (local governments: 63%, NPDs: 10%, SFUs: 35%). The two groups managing forest areas (NPDs and SFUs) ranked the problems caused by the species high (the median was −4 for both groups on a −5–+5 scale). Ailanthus altissima was present in the areas of at least 80 percent in each examined group. In areas where the species was present, eradication was applied in a significantly higher percent of NPDs (86%) and SFUs (88%) than regarding local governments (36%), and the same tendency was found for using mechanical and chemical methods (p < 0.05). The two groups managing forest areas also applied biological methods, although at a lower rate (NPDs: 10%, SFUs: 14%). The unit costs and area of eradication varied between NPDs and SFUs, but the difference was not significant between the two groups (p = 0.073 and 0.213, respectively). NPDs used more external funding for eradication than local governments and state forestry units, mostly co-financed by European Union funds (e.g., LIFE and European Regional Development Fund). Information was required by a large percentage of respondents from local governments (75% of those who recognised the species). The need for cooperation between stakeholder groups was indicated by 78% of local governments recognising the species, and was ranked high by the two expert groups as well (medians were 4 for NPDs and 5 for SFUs on a 0–5 scale). Sharing knowledge about and experience with eradication among the two expert groups and transferring knowledge to the local governments are recommended for the successful management of the species. Further research is needed regarding the effectiveness, the environmental impacts, and the costs of eradication, as well as influencing factors. Full article

Background: Uterus transplantation (UTx) is a proven treatment for individuals affected by absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI) who desire biological motherhood. Despite the fact that over 130 procedures have been performed worldwide in the past decade, UTx remains relatively unfamiliar, even among healthcare professionals. This study aimed to identify knowledge gaps regarding and evaluate attitudes toward UTx among Hungarian obstetricians/gynecologists and transplantation providers, in anticipation of the first procedure to be performed in the country. Methods: A Microsoft Forms^® questionnaire was distributed electronically among Hungarian medical professionals via e-mail, including members of the Hungarian Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Hungarian Transplantation Society. Additionally, participants of the “Update 2024” OB/GYN conference (held 28–29 November 2024, in Visegrád, Hungary) were invited to complete the survey through a QR code displayed during the event. Results: A total of 290 medical professionals completed the survey (response rate: 27.6%, 290/1050). Most of the respondents specialized in obstetrics and gynecology (81.7%, n = 237), with the remainder representing transplantation fields (18.3%, n = 53). Over half (56.6%, n = 161) reported they would recommend UTx to patients with AUFI, and 64.1% (n = 186) agreed that UTx should be available as a treatment option. The medical risks associated with the procedure were deemed acceptable for both living donors (58.0%, n = 168) and recipients (54.8%, n = 159). Conclusions: This is the first study to explore perceptions of UTx among Hungarian medical professionals. The findings suggest there is a generally favorable professional attitude toward its future clinical implementation. Full article

Studying the effects of grazing pressure on species composition, beta diversity and yields is important for conservation purposes as well as for grassland management. The case study area in Hortobágy, which is one of the largest continuous grassland areas in Europe, has been managed for centuries by grazing of Hungarian grey cattle. The effect of grazing pressure was investigated in terms of distance from the livestock enclosure (50 m, 250 m, 500 m, 1000 m, and 1700 m) and in an ungrazed control area on dry and mesic alkaline grasslands in spring and autumn of 2024. In both types of grasslands at each distance, species composition and mean plant height were recorded in six 4 × 4 m plots. Overall, in both seasons the control areas were the poorest in terms of species richness. Among the grazed areas in both grassland types the ones at 1700 m distance had the lowest number of species. The species richness of mesic grassland decreased linearly with distance. The dry grassland showed a polynomial trend and was more species-rich at all distances than the mesic grassland. Green yield was the highest in the dry grassland at 250 m in spring and at 50 m in autumn, while in the mesic grassland it was highest at 1700 m in spring and between 500 and 1700 m in autumn. Forage quality in dry grassland was lowest at 50 m and highest between 500 and 1000 m. In mesic grassland, this parameter was equalized at all distances. The highest Simpson diversity was found at a distance of 500–1000 m from the livestock enclosure in both types. It is advisable to evaluate separately the spring and autumn characteristics of the alkaline grasslands, as there may be significant differences between them. Overall, it can be concluded that alkaline dry grasslands are particularly suitable for grazing because of their species composition and their good tolerance to grazing. Alkaline mesic grasslands are poorer in species and more sensitive to grazing; consequently, mowing or mixed utilization should be considered. Full article